Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands are a British overseas department located in the South Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago is comprised of 778 islands, the largest ones being East and West Falkland. East Falkland is also home to the archipelago’s capital and largest city, Stanley. Other big cities include Goose Green Settlement and Port Howard. Approximately 3,000 people live in the Falkland Islands and most of them are of British descent.

Although the head of state is the Queen, a local governor is in charge of administration, who acts on recommendations given by the Executive Assembly. Since the war of ’82, when Argentina claimed the Islands, the United Kingdom consolidated its military presence in the region and also set up a Royal Air Force Station at Mount Pleasant.

The Falkland Islands are considered a transition area between the polar tundra climate and the maritime subarctic climate. Weather conditions and temperatures vary quite a lot, often throughout the course of a single day.

Whaling and sealing, which also represent the oldest economic activity on the island, are the main contributors to the region’s financial system. Other important economic activities include sheep farming, fishing, tourism, and the oil exploration industry. The Islands’ major exports are represented by wool, coins, and stamps. The local currency is the Falkland Islands Pound (FKP), which is fixed to and backed by the Pound Sterling (GBP).

The only official language in the region is English, which is spoken by the entire population. The residents are often referred to as “Islanders” or “Kelpers”.

Share us

advertise your business here

If you are interested in advertising your business here, please read 'Advertise with us' to find out more.

Before you take off

Please contact us if you believe information on this page is incorrect, misleading or offensive, or if something important is missing.

The International Wanderer aims to provide you with up to date and accurate information. However, content is submitted by writers/wanderers from all over the globe. Sometimes we will get it wrong. Furthermore, working holiday and other visa opportunities and requirements (or numbers allocated) may change. New working holiday agreements are constantly being negotiated between countries. We suggest that you contact the nearest consulate or embassy of the country you wish to visit to ensure you have the most recent and accurate information. For further information about this website see our Terms & Conditions.